WINTERMELON (SAMPLE)

15 - 20 lb per piece Wintermelon aka "Wax Gourd", "Ash Gourd", "Dong-Gua", "冬瓜" Winter melon resembles a large watermelon with an oblong or round shape and dark green, waxy skin. The flesh is thick, firm, and white with large cavities full of cream-colored seeds. Winter melon tastes mild, reminiscent of the watermelon rind. When cooked, the flesh becomes transparent and softens. Wintermelon is available year-round. Handling Tip Selection Wintermelon is firm and heavy for its size.  Uniform color of smooth skin with a waxy dusting. Avoid wintermelon with dark spots or foul odors. Storage Wintermelon should be stored at 55°F - 60°F (12.8°C - 15.6°C) with low relative humidity and no mist. The typical shelf life is three to five months. Once cut, the shelf life is no more than one week. Wintermelon is not sensitive to ethylene, a naturally occurring gas that regulates ripening. Wintermelon produces a low level of ethylene.